Tampa Bay Lightning Team Update 13/11/12

This week’s League it to Us Power Ranking: 14th in the NHL, 7th in the Eastern Conference, 3rd in the Southeast Division.

5 points of the Week

1. Force Training

Brian Lee has been practicing with the Fargo Force of the USHL to stay in shape while CBA negotiations continue. Lee had 8 assists in 20 games for Tampa Bay last year.

2. The Chosen Few

AHL’er Trevor Smith has been selected to play for Team Canada for the Maccabiah Games. Held in Israel every 4 years, the games consist of all Jewish athletes. Smith played 16 games for Tampa Bay last year. This Canadian junior team is part of a 4-team tourney and will be coached by Mike Keenan.

3. Coach Guy Boucher has Big Expectations to Fulfill

The Lightning made the Eastern Conference Finals in Boucher’s first season behind the bench (2010-11). The NHL’s youngest coach (39) enjoyed early success but last season Tampa Bay missed the playoffs. After key additions in the off-seasons, expectations are very high for the team to get back to where they were two years ago.

4. St. Louis Frustrated, Lecavalier Hoping For Best Regarding Lockout

Martin St. Louis, nearing the end of his peak, wants to showcase his talent on the ice. Vincent Lecavalier wants talks to continue and encourages things to get done in wake of all the negotiations.

5. Conacher Slowing After Hot Start

Cory Conacher had 12 points in 8 games for the Syracuse Crunch. He only has one point in his last 3 games though. The left-winger will turn 23 in December.